the fabric of our

community

Established in 1985, Magellan is more than a specialty steel distributor. Magellan is also an exemplary corporate citizen.

Throughout decades of business, we’ve earned a reputation as an engaged and generous company. The Magellan logo is visible to Chicagoans thanks to our prolific support of many sports teams, music venues, and cultural initiatives.

But we’re most proud of our work with charitable organizations. Through hands-on volunteer opportunities and with direct financial support, we have contributed to dozens of nonprofit groups addressing cultural opportunities and critical societal needs in the Chicagoland area.

It makes us feel pretty great.

Kindness is serious business at Magellan Corporation.

Sharing our stories

From learning from a boardroom presentation by a world-renowned astronomer to plating chicken dinners in the USO commissary, exploring behind the scenes at a museum to attending executive luncheons, entertaining at client appreciation events, or supporting nonprofit fundraisers, Magellan employees find there’s no such thing as a typical work week. Here are a few snapshots of activities we’ve participated in over the years.

Magellan Sponsors WWII Foundation Documentary Premiere

Dad’s Secret War: France 1944

Magellan was honored to serve as the Presenting Sponsor for The World War II Foundation’s Gala, on November 14, 2024, at the Embassy of France in Washington, D.C. The event featured the premiere of Dad’s Secret War: France 1944, a powerful documentary chronicling the covert missions of the American OSS and British SOE during World War II. The gala paid tribute to World War II veterans, Holocaust survivors, and the enduring legacy of the Greatest Generation, underscoring the importance of preserving these vital stories.

The event also included moving tributes to five World War II veterans and six Holocaust survivors, featuring presentations of flags flown over Omaha Beach and handmade shadow boxes honoring their service. Attendees were captivated by Dad’s Secret War: France 1944, narrated by Kevin Bacon, which brought to life the courage and ingenuity of the unsung heroes of the Allied effort.

Magellan Corporation is proud to support initiatives that preserve the stories of World War II for future generations. Sponsoring this gala aligns with our values of honoring history and fostering education about the resilience, courage, and unity that defined the Greatest Generation.

We extend our gratitude to The World War II Foundation for the opportunity to support their mission and celebrate the lives and legacies of those who served.

A tuneful lunch with a Chicago legend

WXRT's own Terri Hemmert headlined a Lunch & Learn


Magellan was thrilled to host WXRT Chicago's own Terri Hemmert, who headlined a Lunch & Learn on Tuesday, November 12 at our offices. A true radio legend, we appreciated learning a bit of the trailblazing accomplishments of Terri, cornerstone of Chicago’s airwaves.

This year, Terri marked her 50th anniversary with WXRT. Known for her groundbreaking role as Chicago’s first female morning-drive host in 1981, Terri’s influence extends far beyond radio. For decades, she has hosted Breakfast with the Beatles and inspired thousands through her teaching at Columbia College, where she shares the history of rock with future generations. Terri’s impact on the community is just as profound through her work on social justice initiatives. A true icon, she was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2010.

She wove together her encyclopedic knowledge of music with personal stories of her interactions with some of the greats. From Mavis Staples to Sir Paul McCartney, Terri has met and befriended countless artists who shaped the landscape of rock, jazz, soul, alternative and more. After her talk, Magellan team and guests enjoyed a Greek feast, while Terri spun records and regaled us with more storytelling. It was an honor to host Terri and her colleagues from Audacy on this memorable afternoon.

AN EVENING AT HALAS HALL

Servicemen and Women Enjoy Live Radio Show

Magellan is proud to support our servicemen and women all year round.

On Thursday, November 7, Magellan hosted 50 service members and their families from Great Lakes Naval Base to a day at Halas Hall.  Guests were there for the live airing of Chicago Bears Weekly Live Radio Show, featuring ESPN 1000 play-by-play announcer Jeff Joniak and 1985 Bears alum and ESPN 1000 color commentator Tom Thayer, with special guest current Bears Safety Kevin  Byard III.

The three gave insights into the successes and failures of the team on the gridiron and what the rest of the season might look like.

Organized through the Navy’s department of Moral, Welfare and Recreation, guests and family members from Great Lakes enjoyed a terrific dinner spread, drinks, were invited to grab some autographs during commercial breaks and (always!) left with some swag from their favorite monsters of the midway.

We are also committed to hiring veterans, and four fabulous members of our staff contribute immeasurably to Magellan's success. David Twiford, Matthew Bell, Larry Norwood and Adam Shaw,  thank you for your service -- we are grateful!

CELEBRATING TWO INCREDIBLE MILESTONES

Congratulations Frank & Emily!

A day to celebrate two of the greats!

Frank Paolillo our EVP and Chief of Commercial Operations, has been Magellan for 35 years! Frank has been boots on the ground nearly since our inception, and helped shape the company into what it is today. He is tireless, endless in his knowledge of our business and the marketplace, and a true delight to work with. His dedication and leadership have been pivotal to our success.

Emily Ricci, Vice President of Materials Management, is celebrating an impressive 25 years with Magellan. Over the years, Emily has excelled in multiple roles, contributing significantly to our growth. She is thoughtful, meticulous, and a kind soul.

During the celebration, stories were told (but what is said in our Board Room stays in our Board Room!), and the gathering was followed by a tasty lunch.

We’re grateful for the passion, commitment, and positive energy Frank & Emily bring to our team!

BEEF, LOTS OF BEEF

Thanks to our guys at the warehouse!

What does it take to feed 50 hardworking inventory professionals, dock workers and stevedores? On Tuesday, September 24, it took 40 Italian beef sandwiches, 50 Italian sausage rolls, 32 cheeseburgers, 24 hot dogs, a giant salad and 5 large chocolate cakes.

Magellan has begun treating our own inventory crew as well as the other great men and women working at North American Stevedoring Company to monthly lunches. While usually the lunch has been in the form of a taco truck, this month the guys had a different idea. So Portillo’s it was! And we loaded them up on beef – LOTS of beef.

Our crew of six guys includes Luis, Angel, Larry, Dominic, Tyrece and Leo. All Chicago inventory is tagged, moved, stored, catalogued and shipped out under their skillful oversight. And they’re at work every day, regardless of weather. We know how indispensable they are to helping Magellan fulfill our commitment to superior service to clients – we couldn’t do it without them. 

The relationships they’ve formed with the other folks at NASCO and Great Lakes Reload plays a big part in our success, too. These monthly lunches are one way we say, “thank you.”

A Night of Music and Community: Magellan at the 2024 Blue Jean Gala

Celebrating music, community, and the arts with Lyle Lovett

The 2024 Blue Jean Gala at the Old Town School of Folk Music was a night to remember, filled with music, community, and celebration — and Magellan was thrilled to be part of it. Held on September 20 at the School’s Lincoln Square campus, this annual event supports its mission to provide music education and programs for all.

The evening began with a strolling feast through Lincoln Square, showcasing local culinary delights. Guests then gathered in the School’s intimate Maurer Hall for a performance by the legendary Lyle Lovett. A four-time Grammy Award winner, Lovett’s genre-defying blend of country, blues, and folk, paired with his captivating stage presence, made for an unforgettable experience.

The festivities continued with a lively after-party featuring more music, late-night bites, and a relaxed, denim-chic vibe. Magellan, a longtime supporter of the Old Town School, was delighted to have 30 friends join us in celebrating the School’s contributions to Chicago’s artistic community.

Proceeds from the Blue Jean Gala support financial aid, community partnerships, and education initiatives, keeping the arts accessible to all. We’re honored to support this important work.

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Remember when we told you we were more than a steel company?

Follow Magellan Corporation on LinkedIn to learn about updates on our business, meet our team members, read a little bit about our civic and athletic involvements, and become more familiar with our nonprofit partners.

We have a lot to say!